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Model Release Form template

A model release gives a photographer, brand, or agency written permission to use a model's likeness in photographs for commercial, editorial, or stock purposes on agreed terms.

Replace everything in [BRACKETS], export to PDF, then send it for signature.

1. Parties

This Model Release (the "Release") is made on [DATE] between [PHOTOGRAPHER / CLIENT NAME], of [ADDRESS] (the "Photographer"), and [MODEL NAME], of [MODEL ADDRESS] (the "Model"). [OPTIONAL: The Model is represented by AGENCY NAME.]

2. Shoot Details

This Release covers photographs and digital images of the Model taken on [SHOOT DATE(S)] at [LOCATION] for [PROJECT / CLIENT / CAMPAIGN NAME] (the "Images").

3. Grant of Rights

For the consideration set out below, the Model grants the Photographer, its clients, licensees, and assigns the [EXCLUSIVE / NON-EXCLUSIVE], [WORLDWIDE / TERRITORY] right to use, reproduce, adapt, publish, and distribute the Images, and the Model's name and likeness in connection with them, in any media now known or later developed, for [PERMITTED USES, e.g. advertising, packaging, websites, social media, stock licensing].

4. Usage Term

The rights granted last for [TERM, e.g. perpetually / two (2) years from first publication]. Use beyond this term or outside the permitted uses requires a new agreement and fee.

5. Sensitive Uses

The Images will not be used in a manner that is defamatory or pornographic, or in connection with [SENSITIVE SUBJECTS, e.g. political, religious, medical, or tobacco-related content] without the Model's separate written consent. Where the Images are used in connection with a sensitive subject, a statement will be included that the person depicted is a model, where appropriate.

6. Compensation

The Model will receive [FEE AND CURRENCY / PRINTS OR DIGITAL IMAGES IN LIEU OF FEE], payable [PAYMENT TERMS]. [OPTIONAL: Overtime is paid at RATE per hour beyond HOURS.] No further payment or royalties are due for uses permitted by this Release.

7. Editing and Approval

The Model agrees that the Images may be cropped, retouched, composited, or otherwise altered, provided they are not distorted in a way that is offensive or misrepresents the Model. The Model waives any right to approve the finished Images, [EXCEPT: APPROVAL RIGHTS, if any].

8. Ownership

The Photographer (or its client, as agreed between them) owns all rights, including copyright, in the Images. The Model has no ownership interest in the Images.

9. Release of Claims

To the extent permitted by law, the Model releases the Photographer and its clients and licensees from claims for invasion of privacy, right of publicity, defamation, or similar claims arising from use of the Images as permitted by this Release.

10. Age and Capacity

The Model confirms they are at least [AGE OF MAJORITY] years old and have the right to sign this Release. If the Model is a minor, a parent or legal guardian consents on the Model's behalf by signing below.

11. Governing Law

This Release is governed by the laws of [GOVERNING LAW JURISDICTION]. It is the entire agreement between the parties on its subject and may be amended only in writing.

12. Signatures

The Parties agree that this Agreement may be signed electronically and in counterparts, and that electronic signatures have the same effect as handwritten signatures. MODEL: [MODEL NAME] Signature: ____________________ Date: [DATE] PARENT OR GUARDIAN (if Model is a minor): [GUARDIAN NAME] Signature: ____________________ Date: [DATE] PHOTOGRAPHER: [PHOTOGRAPHER / CLIENT NAME] Signature: ____________________ Date: [DATE]

When to use this template

  • Before a commercial photo shoot for advertising, packaging, or catalogs
  • When submitting photos of recognizable people to stock agencies
  • When booking freelance or agency models for a brand campaign
  • For portfolio (TFP) shoots where images will be shared or published

How to fill it in and get it signed

  1. Enter the photographer or client, the model, and any agency details.
  2. Describe the shoot date, location, and project the images are for.
  3. Define the permitted uses, territory, and usage term, and list any sensitive uses excluded.
  4. Set the model's fee or trade terms, then add the governing law.
  5. Upload the release to eSignSimple and send it to the model (and guardian, if needed) for e-signature, ideally before the shoot.

This template is general information, not legal advice. Laws differ by country and state; have a lawyer review contracts with high stakes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a model release and a photo release?

They are closely related. "Model release" usually refers to professional or commercial shoots with detailed usage and fee terms, while a photo release is often a simpler permission from event attendees or subjects.

Do stock photo sites require a model release?

Most stock agencies require a signed model release for commercial use of images showing recognizable people. Some have their own forms, so check their requirements.

Do I need a model release for editorial use?

Editorial use such as news reporting often has different rules than commercial use, depending on the country. A release is still helpful if you are unsure how the images will be used.

Can a model sign a release on their phone?

Yes. eSignSimple sends a signing link that works on any device, and the model doesn't need an account.